Islamabad, Pakistan – In a momentous event on Monday, Federal Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel initiated the construction of a groundbreaking cancer hospital at the prestigious Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). The envisioned facility, expected to be fully operational within two years, aims to offer cutting-edge medical services with a capacity of 200 beds. With an estimated budget of Rs. 10.8 billion, this vital healthcare project is set to revolutionize cancer treatment in the region.
Originally, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif was slated to lay the foundation stone for the hospital. However, due to prior commitments in Lahore, he regrettably could not attend the inauguration ceremony. Stepping up to the task, Minister Patel, alongside esteemed medical professionals, spearheaded the event, emphasizing the significance of this initiative for the country’s healthcare landscape.
Promising Progress and Timelines
During the ceremony, Minister Patel announced that the Cancer Hospital Islamabad has already made remarkable strides, with 30 percent of the construction work completed. Expressing optimism, he stated that the outpatient departments would commence operations by mid-2025, reinforcing the commitment to timely implementation and delivery of quality medical services.
Advanced Cancer Treatment Facilities at the Forefront
Dr. Ayesha Isani, the esteemed Project Director, unveiled the comprehensive range of cancer treatment services that the hospital will provide. The state-of-the-art facility will include specialized departments for radiology, pathology, onco-surgery, medical oncology, ICU, emergency care for cancer patients, genetics, and research. With a holistic approach to cancer care, the hospital aims to offer integrated services for patients, ensuring a seamless continuum of care from diagnosis to recovery.
Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Progress
Dr. Ayesha shed light on the challenges encountered during the inception of the project. She explained that the initial Project Concept-1 (PC-I) received approval from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) in 2018, with an allocation of Rs. 1,998 million for the civil work. However, the designated funds of Rs. 265 million for the financial year 2018-19 were not released as planned. The project faced temporary suspension by the task force on Health under the Ministry of NHAR&C (National Health, Regulations, and Coordination). Despite these obstacles, Dr. Ayesh assured attendees that the project would proceed according to the planned timeline, with construction progressing rapidly to complete the essential infrastructure.
